Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations

Exchange Glitch Incorrectly Diverts Calif. Consumers to Medi-Cal

On Friday, Covered California officials announced that they were investigating a glitch with the state exchange's website that has improperly diverted some applicants to Medi-Cal, U-T San Diego reports.

Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program.

Details of Glitch

According to U-T San Diego, some consumers who qualify to buy coverage from commercial insurers through the state's exchange were instead directed to Medi-Cal.

Several insurance brokers have said that the problem happened as consumers tried to modify their income levels on the website.

It is unclear how many individuals have been affected by the glitch.

Amy Palmer, communications director of Covered California, said investigators are working to address the issue. Palmer said that consumers should not be concerned if the issue is not fixed by Dec. 15, as the exchange will ensure affected enrollees' plans are effective by Jan. 1, 2015.

Meanwhile, other consumers have reported long waits on Covered California's website while trying to sign up for coverage.

Palmer said, "We certainly know the system is not perfect, but we think it's better than it was last year" (Sisson, U-T San Diego, 12/12).

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